Calendula officinalis

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Latest Edit: Hector 2014-03-18 (EDT)

See Also Botanical Monographs
Calendula2447.jpg

Calendula is commonly used topically to treat a range of skin conditions. To explore the characteristics, medicinal uses and prescribing considerations of this herb in more detail, check out the references indicated. [1], [2]

Characteristics

Uses

Medicinal Uses:

Topically

  • Skin traumas: cuts, scrapes, scalds, burns, insect bites, perineal laceration during delivery.
  • Surgical wounds (irrigate two-three times daily).
  • Skin disease: ulcer, abscess, acne, psoriasis, eczema, pruritus, vaginitis, cervicitis, cervical erosion, diaper rash (usually candida related).
  • Other Conditions
  • Gingivitis, stomatitis, oral ulcers (gargle).
  • Irritated nasal mucosa.
  • Gonococcal leucorrhea (as a douche or rinse): irrigate an infusion of C. officinalis into the bladder via catheterization.
  • Conjunctivitis (pinkeye): eyewash, poultice, compress of fresh flowers.
  • Suppurative conditions with a lot of purulent discharge.
  • Varicose veins.

Internal

  • Digestive irritation (minor).

Prescribing Considerations

The information provided is intended to augment the treatment from a naturopathic doctor or other trained medical professional. Although most herbs are generally safe, it is recommended that you avoid self-prescribing especially when there is an underlying ongoing medical condition, if you are on any prescription medications or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Formulations and Preparation

  • Tincture - 30-60 drops three times daily
  • Fluid extract - 10-40 drops
  • Infusion - 1-4g flower (fresh or dried)/240mL of water; pour boiled water over and let steep covered for 10 minutes
  • Poultice or compress from fresh plant/flowers
  • Succus (juice in 10% alcohol) - good for skin wounds
  • Ointment - 2-5g plant/100g ointment

Safety

The safety and prescribing considerations for Calendula include: [3], [4]

  • Generally regarded as safe.
  • Side-effect is possibly contact dermatitis
  • Caution/Contraindicated in pregnancy and for people with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family
  • Drug-Herb Interactions are not noted.

References

  1. Boon Heather, Smith Michael (2009) 55 Most Common Medicinal Herbs: The Complete Natural Medicine Guide Second Edition Institute of Naturopathic Education and Research, CCNM Toronto.
  2. Godfrey Anthony, Saunders Paul, Barlow Kerry, Gowan Matt (2011) Principles and Practices of Naturopathic Botanical Medicine, Advanced Botanical Medicine. V3 CCNM Press, Toronto.
  3. Stargrove Mitchell Bebell, Treasure Jonathan, McKee Dwight L (2008) Herb, Nutrient and Drug Interactions: Clinical Implications and Therapeutic Strategies
  4. Brinker Francis (1997) Herbal Contraindications and Drug Interactions: Plus Herbal Adjuncts With Medicines, 4th Edition Eclectic Medical Publications.